Police and Crime Commissioner Matt Storey has responded to the latest inspection report of Cleveland Police, published by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).
The force has been graded as ‘good’ in four areas, ‘adequate’ in two areas and ‘requires improvement’ in two areas. The full assessment can be accessed via the link below:
Cleveland PEEL Assessment 2023–2025Matt said: “I’m delighted that the scale and impact of Cleveland Police’s improvement has been recognised by His Majesty’s Inspectorate in their latest report on the force’s performance.
“For a force previously graded as ‘inadequate’ in all areas of policing, there now isn’t a single ‘inadequate’ grading in this report – an outstanding achievement for all involved.
“Cleveland Police is now independently graded as ‘good’ in most areas, with dramatic leaps in the gradings around building a strong workforce and preventing crime and antisocial behaviour.
“Clearly, there is still work to be done and I am certainly not complacent about the ongoing improvement required to address some of the recommendations made within the report.
“However it’s important that we take a moment to appreciate the journey Cleveland Police has been on in recent years, overturning its image to become recognised as one of the country’s most improved police forces.
“The scale of the force’s transformation is testament to the leadership and vision of Chief Constable Mark Webster. We’re privileged that he chose to spend the latter years of his 33-year career providing much-needed stability, direction and professionalism to Cleveland Police.
“And I thank the force’s hardworking officers, staff and volunteers for their dedicated service. Despite high demand and resourcing challenges, they make an effort every day to protect our communities from harm.
“Inspectors have recognised that the Cleveland force area has the highest levels of income deprivation and recorded incidents in England and Wales, in addition to receiving more 999 calls than the national average.
“Sadly, the current funding formula means policing in Cleveland is not appropriately funded to tackle these significant challenges – making the scale of recent improvements even more impressive.
“I believe this report makes Cleveland Police a very attractive proposition for an aspiring Chief Constable. On behalf of local people and victims of crime, I expect the force’s next leader to maintain this level of momentum, to ensure the Cleveland Police continues to stand out for the right reasons.”